The Broncos have been hit hard with training camp injuries at tight end this summer. Jake Butt (ACL) and Bug Howard (ankle) have been ruled out for Thursday’s game against the Seahawks and the status of Jeff Heuerman (shoulder) is uncertain.
Fortunately, none of the injuries are believed to be serious. Another positive is that the injuries have opened the door for undrafted rookie Austin Fort to get more snaps in preseason. So far, Fort has taken advantage of his opportunity.
“He’s gotten a lot of reps because of those injuries [at tight end],” coach Vic Fangio said after practice Tuesday. “I think he’s gotten worn down a little bit, but eventually all those reps will come back to really help him.
“[I’m] anxious to see him play. We’re not practicing [Wednesdsay], so these guys are going to get basically from the time they left this field to kickoff about 58 hours. We’re hopeful they’ll come back from these — particularly the position where we’ve been light.”
Fort was targeted four times in the Hall of Fame Game last week and hauled in two receptions. He’d undoubtedly like to improve on those totals in Seattle on Thursday evening.
